The cool night air washed against my skin, leaving me shaking. It wasn't that late, but you could already tell the night would be chilly. I breathed out, as my footsteps echoed along the pavement. I just wanted to get home and rug up, after my long day. I heard my phone ring and dug around in my purse, pulling out the large device.
"Hello?" I asked, glad to put the annoying ringing to an end.
"Hey Jo" Pacey's warm voice greeted me.
"Oh Hey" I smiled, slowing my pace down.
"I'm still at the restaurant" He admitted, sounding like he wished he was anywhere but there.
"What happened to, 'No more late nights Jo, I promise'" I laughed; only faintly annoyed.
"I know, but I'll make it up to you. Breakfast tomorrow?" He asked.
"Sure" I smiled.
"Just call me when you get home okay?" Pacey asked.
"I'm sure I'm not going to get lost between here and home" I said.
"I know that" He said quietly, "Just want to know you're safe"
"Pacey, you don't have to be so big brother" I said calmly.
Ever since we had moved in together, he was always checking I was okay. I mean it was sweet and everything, but I think I knew how to handle myself in my own city. I was sure he only did it because he cared and loved me, but I couldn't help being a bit offended sometimes.
"I know, just call me Jo," He said.
"Okay" I said hanging up. I continued to walk at a lazy pace, wanting to make him squirm slightly. I just wanted some space and sometimes, it felt impossible to get. I thought of him sitting at the restaurant not getting any work done, too busy staring at his phone. I sighed angrily and began to walk faster. I turned the corner and crashed into someone, flying back and falling to the floor.
"Ouch" I muttered. The man looked at me and held out his hand, I gratefully accepted as he hoisted me to my feet.
"Sorry ma'am" He slurred, the stench of alcohol wafting off him.
"It's fine," I said, wanting to leave quickly. He still was holding my wrist, a bit too firmly for my liking.
"You need to go somewhere, I could walk you? Pretty lady like you shouldn't be out on her own" He giggled. I noticed my phone lying just at his feet and he looked down when I did. He smiled at the phone and I saw him raise a foot, bringing it down with such force on my phone.
"Sorry" He laughed.
"Accidents happen" I gulped.
"You got a lovely voice there Pretty lady" He smiled drunkenly.
"Thank you" I said quietly, trying to subtly worm my way out of his grasp.
"What's your name there?" He asked, holding onto my wrist tighter.
"Joey" I muttered.
"Well Joey" He laughed, "I think you'll be staying right here with me"